finding craft shows

[PaperFlora]

How do you find a craft show in your area? Are there lists somewhere of local shows somewhere on the web?

[Former_Member]

Wisconsin has an Arts and Crafts Board (something like that) with a huge directory of sales. I suggest looking for something similar in your state. I also suggest attending any potential show before applying to it. This is something I've learned through experience!

[ecarlateboutique]

I am here in Ca too and when I began I looked at Craftmaster. You have to pay a fee to get more info but it is far worth it when you find out about the fairs.

Good luck

[Former_Member]

I googled them for our area. There tends to be a lot of lists sites for that kind of thing. Just be careful with the fees. Doing a lot of those can add up fast! See if you can find another local crafter to split costs.

[CollectionsbyTracy]

I attend a few craft shows a year and love it. I would check your local paper and also ask around your neighborhood. You might be surprised at how many craft shows are in your area. Each craft show has different fees and some have applications you have to fill out.

Good luck to you on your hunt !

[Former_Member]

join an etsy team that is based out of your area. teams members normally post shows in the area.

[beatroad]

I check out multiple sites, because they all feature different shows:

http://www.myartsandcrafts.com/craft_shows.htm
http://festivalnet.com/index.html
http://www.artscraftsshowbusiness.com/default.aspx
http://www.indiecraftshows.com/events
http://www.artscraftsshowbusiness.com/shows.aspx?state=GA
http://festivalsandevents.com/

Those are my favorites. Plus, I have a local bead shop that features a list of events by Google Event Lister. I also do Google searches on local indie craft shows by city and state.

Good luck!

[TheSalvagedEdge]

Go to one craft show, make friends with other crafters and ask about craft shows. We have an email group in our town for craft shows so we can share comments and rate how well each show went and what type of items sold well and what didn't.

[Former_Member]

If you haven't done shows before, by biggest advice is to be particular in the one you choose. Don't just jump at any opportunity. Ask a lot of questions, and make sure it will be worth your time and investment. When I first started doing shows, I just kind of took any show I could get, but they just weren't worth my time, and I barely broke even for the entry fee. Craft shows can be hugely successful and bring a lot of business into your shop, but be aware of what you are getting into.

[Untwistedsister]

There's a directory that's published every year called "Where The Shows Are". I think they have a website too.

[PaperFlora]

that's a lot of great info-

[philosophiacreations]

@Danielle, that's a great list of resource sites. Thanks so much!

I've just been using word of mouth + kijiji.